2023 Mazda CX-30 vs 2022 Nissan Rogue

The 2022 Nissan Rogue continued to build on its established reputation with a mature and sophisticated design. Its exterior featured a V-motion grille, multi-level LED headlights, and a sleek floating roof, all contributing to a refined appearance. Inside, the Rogue offered a layered dash design with contrasting colours and surfaces, creating a sophisticated and detailed look. The centre console was a highlight, featuring an electronic gear selector lever, wireless charging pad, and ample storage space. The Zero Gravity front seats provided comfort, while the second row offered generous legroom, making it a practical choice for families.

In contrast, the 2023 Mazda CX-30 presented an artful design with a long hood and dramatic flanks, though its excessive grey body cladding detracted from its appeal. Inside, the CX-30 boasted an upscale cabin with quality materials, including leather upholstery and polished metal accents. The GT Turbo trim featured a tasteful combination of off-white leather and chocolate brown elements, giving it an entry-level luxury feel. However, the front passenger seat lacked adjustability, and rear legroom was tight, making it less accommodating for passengers.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue's performance was enhanced by its new 1.5-litre VC-Turbo engine, producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. This engine offered improved fuel efficiency, with estimates of 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 6.5 on the highway. The Rogue's CVT transmission provided a smooth ride, and its chassis and suspension delivered controlled handling with minimal body roll. The electric power-assisted steering offered good feel, and the tight turning diameter made it manoeuvrable in urban settings.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered a range of powertrains, with the GT Turbo trim featuring a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine producing up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and AWD provided robust acceleration, though the powertrain could be caught flat-footed in traffic. The CX-30's suspension was compliant, but its handling on rough roads was less refined. The small fuel tank limited its range, requiring frequent refuelling stops.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue excelled in interior space and storage options. The front cabin featured numerous storage compartments, including bottle holders, cupholders, and a centre console bin. Rear-seat passengers had access to storage in the doors and seatbacks, along with USB ports for device charging. The Rogue's cargo area offered up to 1,033 litres of space, expandable to 2,098 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 provided standard dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat, but the front passenger seat lacked adjustability. Rear legroom was tight, though the seatbacks were padded for comfort. Storage space was reasonable, with bins in the doors and a centre armrest with cupholders. The CX-30's cargo area offered 572 litres of space, expandable to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded, though it lacked additional storage features.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue featured a comprehensive technology suite, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 10.8-inch head-up display. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay available on upper trims. ProPilot Assist provided advanced driver-assist features, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system lacked a touchscreen, relying on console controls that required attention to operate. The system's voice recognition was limited, and the absence of a tuning knob was a drawback. However, the CX-30 offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bose sound system on higher trims.

The 2022 Nissan Rogue came equipped with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. ProPilot Assist offered advanced driver-assist features, and the Rogue received a four-star safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 improved its safety with rear side airbags and seatbelt tensioners, earning a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS. Standard safety features included blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with additional features available on higher trims. The CX-30's safety systems worked well, though some responses were overly sensitive.